U.S. patent application number 09/840283 was filed with the patent office on 2002-05-16 for mutimedia marketing and distribution system.
Invention is credited to Stiliadis, Nicholas.
Application Number | 20020059611 09/840283 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22744559 |
Filed Date | 2002-05-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020059611 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stiliadis, Nicholas |
May 16, 2002 |
Mutimedia marketing and distribution system
Abstract
A central server having a computer readable storage media for
storing multimedia material, such as motion pictures and television
programming, in digital format is connected to a communications
network such as the Internet. Exhibitors, such as theaters and
television stations, can access the central server, preview
available programming, verify the ownership of such material,
review contract provisions for obtaining and paying for the desired
programming, and download the programming along with marketing
materials for the program or movie. The central server loads
material onto the storage media as it is received from producers
and owners of such material. In addition, central server retains
data regarding requests for material, such as titles requested, who
requested such, and where the requesters are located
geographically. This information can be used to help producers
market their material more economically.
Inventors: |
Stiliadis, Nicholas;
(Toronto, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HANDAL & MOROFSKY
80 WASHINGTON STREET
NORWALK
CT
06854
US
|
Family ID: |
22744559 |
Appl. No.: |
09/840283 |
Filed: |
April 23, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60201118 |
May 2, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
725/60 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/234309 20130101;
G06Q 30/02 20130101; H04N 21/2547 20130101; G07F 17/16 20130101;
H04N 21/812 20130101; H04N 21/4622 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
725/60 |
International
Class: |
G06F 003/00; H04N
005/445 |
Claims
1. A method of marketing and distributing multimedia, the method
comprising: a. receiving multimedia material from a producer or
owner of said material; b. storing said material on a computer
readable storage medium; c. providing a server system accessible
over a communication network, said server system accessing data
from said computer readable storage medium for transfer over said
communication network; d. providing samples over said server system
of said multimedia material to potential purchasers; e. downloading
upon request over said server system said multimedia material; and
f. providing advertising material to purchasers over said
communication network allowing purchasers to locally market and
sell said multimedia material.
2. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
including receiving multimedia material by downloading via said
communication network.
3. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
wherein receiving multimedia material includes receiving
non-digital media such as celluloid media, printed media, video
cassettes, and audio tape.
4. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 3,
including the step of digitizing said non-digital media for storage
on said computer readable storage medium.
5. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
including providing a server system accessible over a public
communication system.
6. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
including downloading digital material from said server system for
digital display to an audience.
7. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
including providing downloadable advertising materials on said
sever system.
8. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 1,
including providing sales and marketing data based upon visitors to
said server system.
9. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim 8,
including providing marketing data based upon actual users of said
server system.
10. A method of distributing movies comprising: a. receiving a
movie on celluloid; b. scanning said movie converting it into a
digital format, storing said digital format in a computer readable
memory; c. transferring said digital format to a theater via a
communications network and storing said digital format on a
computer readable memory located at said theater; and d. projecting
said digital format using a digital projector onto a screen for
display to an audience.
11. A distribution system for distributing multimedia comprising:
a. a first central processing unit; b. a first memory associated
with said first central processing unit; c. a communications
network accessible by said first central processing unit for
transferring data into and out of said first memory; d. an input
device connected for data transfer to said first central processing
unit, said input device receiving multimedia and transferring it
into said first memory via said central processing unit; e. a
second central processing unit; f. a second memory, said second
memory associated with said second central processing unit with
said communications network being accessible by said second central
processing unit for transferring data into and out of said second
memory; and g. a digital feature film projector in data
communication with said second central processing unit for
displaying a feature film onto a screen for presentation to an
audience, said feature film stored in digital form in said second
memory after being transferred via said communications network from
said first memory.
12. A method of marketing and distributing multimedia, the method
comprising: a. receiving multimedia material from a producer or
owner of said material; b. storing said material on a computer
readable storage medium; c. providing a server system accessible
over a communication network, said server system accessing data
from said computer readable storage medium for transfer over said
communication network; d. establishing an account for a customer;
e. downloading a product upon request from said customer for said
product over said server system said multimedia material; f.
following up to determine information necessary to calculate the
amount owed by said customer for said product; and g. charging the
account of said customer.
13. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
12, including receiving multimedia material by downloading via said
communication network.
14. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
12, wherein receiving multimedia material includes receiving
non-digital media such as celluloid media, printed media, video
cassettes, and audio tape.
15. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
12, wherein said follow-up is implemented by sending an e-mail to
said customer.
16. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
12, wherein said follow-up is implemented by consulting publicly
reported data respecting said customer.
17. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
12, further comprising providing advertising material to purchasers
over said communication network allowing purchasers to locally
market and sell said multimedia material.
18. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
17, further comprising querying said customer to stimulate the
sending of data from said customer and recording said data into a
database.
19. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
18, comprising providing marketing data recorded in said database
to customers in response to a query from a customer.
20. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
19, including providing marketing data based upon actual users of
said server system.
21. A method of marketing and distributing multimedia, the method
comprising: a. receiving multimedia material from a producer or
owner of said material; b. storing said material on a computer
readable storage medium; c. providing a server system accessible
over a communication network, said server system accessing data
from said computer readable storage medium for transfer over said
communication network; d. providing samples over said server system
of said multimedia material to potential purchasers; e. downloading
upon request over said server system said multimedia material; f.
querying said customer to stimulate the sending of data from said
customer; and g. recording said data into a database.
22. The method of marketing and distributing multimedia of claim
21, comprising providing marketing data recorded in said database
to customers in response to a query from a customer.
23. A distribution system for distributing multimedia comprising:
a. a first central processing unit; b. a first memory domain
associated with said first central processing unit; c. a
communications network accessible by said first central processing
unit for transferring data into and out of said first memory domain
in response to an order for a multimedia product; d. an input
device connected for data transfer to said first central processing
unit, said input device receiving multimedia and transferring it
into said first memory domain via said central processing unit; e.
a second central processing unit; f. a second memory domain, said
second memory domain associated with said second central processing
unit with said communications network being accessible by said
second central processing unit for transferring data into and out
of said second memory domain; g. a third memory domain for
receiving market data in response to an order for said multimedia
product; and h. a digital feature film projector in data
communication with said second central processing unit for
displaying a feature film onto a screen for presentation to an
audience, said feature film stored in digital form in said second
memory after being transferred via said communications network from
said first memory.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the marketing and
distribution of multimedia material, including digitally generated
film, video, graphics and audio, and analogues traditional media
converted into digital movie and television programs, and
associated marketing materials for distribution over a computer
network to exhibitors and broadcasters.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art Including Information
Disclosed under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98
[0004] The explosive growth of computer networks, like the
Internet, has provided a convenient way for computer users to
obtain from remote sites information in the form of text, graphics
and audio, as well as video. A computer connected to the Internet
or other computer network can also be utilized to interact in
real-time with other computers connected to the computer
network.
[0005] The film and television industries have evolved over the
years with the audiovisual image becoming omnipresent. Yet despite
the incursion of the new technologies into many fields of business
with the microchip and digital technology changing many aspects of
modern life including marketing and distribution systems: the movie
and television business remains largely unchanged still the motion
picture and television industry today can benefit greatly by
reducing overhead costs with the attendant improvement in profit
margins. These overhead costs include the replication and
distribution of hundreds of celluloid prints, of movies,
videotapes, advertising materials and so forth.
[0006] Today, these costs remain substantially of the same
character and nature as when the industry was relatively young
because the sale of audiovisual materials has undergone little
change in decades. Typically, distributors through film markets,
catalogue sales and long established relationships between
purchasers and sellers, sell films.
[0007] Another problem facing producers and distributors is the
high cost of transportation and shipping of the films themselves
and marketing and advertising materials associated therewith. Part
of this problem includes delayed and damaged shipments adding to
the costs involved. Another high-cost component involves responding
to requests for previews, marketing materials, contract
negotiations, and collecting and tracking sales data for royalties
and further marketing programs. Finally, with regard to promotional
materials, there is little opportunity to select the same, and
wasteful production and transport often occurs.
[0008] Another problem addressed by the present invention is the
time involved in marketing and distributing multimedia products,
especially motion picture films. The longer the time taken to
introduce and distribute a multimedia product the higher the
financing costs become since revenues take longer to be
returned.
[0009] Yet another problem with the present distribution system is
that the producers and owners must market the products through
several different channels requiring similar expenditures in each
of those market areas. Each purchase usually involves multiple
charges for each item sent, such as trailers, sample materials,
duplicates and masters. These costs, especially when incurred
across continents can double a buyer's cost, thereby significantly
cutting into operating margins. In addition, obtaining prospective
purchaser lists, and the purchase history of those purchasers, in
locations around the globe is difficult and thus very costly.
[0010] Many elements are generated during the production of a
typical feature film. The storage, handling and administration of
these elements are time consuming, labor intensive and thus costly.
The delivery process necessitates working with a variety of
suppliers to successfully assemble the required elements, including
thirty five millimeter release prints, audio and music tracks,
foreign language tracks and transcripts, still pictures, video
masters in a variety of formats, such as NTSC, PAL, Beta, one inch,
D1 and D2. Scripts, legal documents and a variety of other
documents must be stored and shipped. Multiple versions of films
are often required to comply with foreign rating regulations. Each
time a new purchase is made for a new market the process must be
repeated. The elimination of physically handling all of these
elements significantly reduces labor costs. Therefore, the present
invention is designed to reduce or nearly eliminate such
handling.
[0011] The market for many films is now worldwide, yet
communication between smaller markets around the world remains
challenging. Many movies continue to produce revenue long after
their first release by being re-released in these smaller markets.
In addition, television programming for major markets can continue
producing revenue when local television stations around the world
seek programming. Nevertheless, servicing the smallest markets
remains grossly inefficient. The problems and costs associated with
marketing and distributing to these markets are currently not cost
effective. The present invention addresses and minimizes these
problems by substantially reducing the costs making the marketing
and distribution of movies and television programming to these
markets economically feasible.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The inventive method of marketing and distributing
multimedia such as motion picture films, television programming and
the like comprises receiving multimedia material from a producer or
owner of the material. If necessary, the material is converted to
digital format. The digital material is then stored on a computer
readable storage medium. A server system is provided that is
accessible over a communication network. The server system accesses
data from the computer readable storage medium for transfer over
the communication network to exhibitors. The server can provide
samples of the multimedia material to potential purchasers
depending upon the marketing strategy employed by the producer or
owner.
[0013] The inventive system provides for the download, upon
request, from the server system over a public or private network of
multimedia material and then advertising material to exhibitors
purchasing rights over the inventive communications network. This
allows exhibitors and broadcasters to locally use the multimedia
material.
[0014] The method of marketing and distributing multimedia is
dependant upon the format in which the media is embodied. One
method of receiving multimedia material is by downloading via the
communication network. If the media is not in an electronic format,
the producer or owner must convert the media to such a format or
physically transport the media to the server for conversion to an
electronic format. The preceding arrangement is employed in
accordance with the invention for motion picture movies that are
commonly produced only in a film format, or in a lower quality on
magnetic videotape. The inventive method of marketing and
distributing multimedia also includes the capacity to digitize any
non-digital media for storage on the computer readable storage
medium.
[0015] The inventive system may be employed to deliver films,
advertising, coming attraction strips, etc. In conventional form,
the inventive method of marketing and distributing multimedia
includes the option of providing a server system accessible over a
public communication system, such as the Internet. The distribution
of the multimedia includes downloading digital material from the
server system for digital display to an audience.
[0016] In addition to the base media, advertising materials can be
downloaded from the server system.
[0017] In addition to providing multimedia to users, the server
system collects data about the users and information respecting the
economics and sales success of exhibitors and broadcasters.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0018] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will be readily apparent from the following detailed
description of the invention, the scope of the invention being set
out in the appended claims. The detailed description will be better
understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein
like reference characters represent like elements throughout the
various views of the drawings and wherein:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram generally illustrating the
inventive system for marketing and distributing multimedia
products; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a method for loading
multimedia of various formats on a computer readable storage medium
in accordance with the invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a computer screen suitable for
serving as a home page in accordance with the method and apparatus
of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a web page screen for the selection of
material;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the inventive method for
obtaining product over the Internet;
[0023] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a secondary web page for the
entry of financial data in a web site constructed in accordance
with present invention;
[0024] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a web page for selecting
download of various products;
[0025] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a web page for selecting
delivery options for multimedia material selected in accordance
with the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the structure of input and
output systems at the central server and at an exhibitor's facility
utilizing a communications link which may be a publicly accessible
network such as the Internet; and
[0027] FIG. 10 is a flow chart, similar to a flow chart in FIG. 5,
illustrating an alternative inventive method for obtaining product
over the Internet while generating and providing statistical
data.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 1, a computer or communications
network 10 implementing the method of the present invention is
illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the system exchanges
information through the use of cyberspace 12, which may be either a
private computer-based communications system or a public system,
such as that known under the alleged trademark the Internet. In
accordance with the invention, an owner of rights in a particular
work, such as a multimedia producer 14, is linked through network
10 to a central server 16 which functions as a distribution web
site in accordance with the invention. Multimedia producer 14 may
also be connected to central server 16 via a private network link
20, thus providing either a faster data link, a more secure link,
or both. In addition, in accordance with the invention, it is
contemplated that communications between the owners of rights may
also take traditional forms, such as the transfer of print masters,
or the like.
[0029] Similarly, a plurality of exhibitors, including a movie
theater 18a, a television station 18b, a satellite television
operator 18c, a cable television operator 18d and a high school
18e, are also connected through cyberspace 12 to central server 16.
It is noted that in accordance with the invention, the servicing of
smaller facilities, such as high school 18e is particularly
cost-effective as compared to conventional methods for transporting
film and associated promotional materials.
[0030] Multimedia producer 14, central server 16, and each of the
exhibitors 18a-e obtain and/or send product and associated
information through facilities which comprise computers with
various peripheral devices, such as a communications modem, display
screen, keyboard, various printers, scanners, and the like, as will
be discussed in greater detail below. In the case of central server
16, relatively robust commercial systems may be employed. However,
sufficient functionality can be achieved by exhibitors 18a-e using
high-end personal computers with enhanced RAM and hard drives.
[0031] Referring now to FIG. 2, a flow chart is presented that
generally shows how various multimedia formats can be loaded into a
computer readable storage media 28 by producers and other persons
who own rights in various cinematographic properties. In accordance
with the invention the same are loaded into a computer readable
storage media 28, which is located at central server 16. Media 28
may take any one of a number of different forms, but in accordance
with the preferred embodiment comprises a hard drive with
high-speed access and large capacity. Alternatively, the same may
be a combination of a large hard drive for materials other than
feature-length or program-length movies, while such movies and
programs are made available via a jukebox arrangement involving
access to multiple disks and mechanical systems for moving those
disks to one or a plurality of player heads.
[0032] In accordance with present invention, there are a plurality
of input paths over which films and associated materials can be
transported for storage in media 28. In the simplest case, all such
media material is physically delivered to central server 16. An
operator at central server 16 logs onto a central processor unit
located at the premises of the website operator at step 30 in FIG.
2. After logging on, the operator of the system inputs an
identifier, such as a title of a movie, associated with the
material to be entered, converted, and stored on storage media 28.
Such material associated with the title may include the actual
film, in the case of a feature length film, graphics for a
newspaper advertisement, a radio spot, a poster, a coming
attractions film segment, handbills or the like.
[0033] In accordance with the invention, it is also contemplated
that producers may log onto the website from a remote location.
Likewise, the official operator of the website can also log onto
the system from a remote location.
[0034] Input of Materials into the System
[0035] If we first consider the case of a remote official operator
logging onto the system at step 30, such operator gives his name
and password, thus identifying himself. The system thus knows the
identity of the person using the system from the name and password
of the individual logging onto the system, in this case the
official operator. The official operator is treated as the
equivalent of an owner because he acts for owners to input
materials into the system. When the operator is identified, at step
31 the system makes the determination that the operator is acting
for owners of product. At this point the system presents the
operator with a list of titles at step 32 and gives the operator
access to implement the system whose operation is illustrated in
FIG. 2.
[0036] If, on the other hand the system determines that the person
logging onto the system is an exhibitor, it proceeds along path 29
through the inventive method steps toward implementation of
distribution of product over the Internet to the exhibitor, the
charging of the account of the exhibitor, and to various other
steps, as will be described in detail below.
[0037] One embodiment of the invention will now be described in
connection with the input of a movie entitled "ABC". Initially,
this movie is received on seventy-millimeter film (celluloid). The
producer or owner of the movie also provides the operator of the
inventive web site with advertising posters, newspaper
advertisements, radio promotional spots on audiocassette or compact
disc, television promotional spots on video cassette or videodisc,
trailers on celluloid or video cassette, a film strip comprising a
coming events announcement, and text, such as all or portions of
the script and critic's reviews. All of these materials and other
types of materials that are normally transported physically from
the owner, such as the producer or other owner of rights, to the
person licensing the movie, are digitized and stored in storage
media 28 in accordance with the invention.
[0038] When these materials are in-house, the operator, who is to
enter the material into the information storage media 28 for
availability over the Internet from central server 16, enters the
title, ABC, at step 32. In accordance with the invention, a screen
for the entry of the title is provided. The screen has a line into
which the title is to be entered which may be highlighted, whereby
the title of the movie may be typed in. The system, in this respect
behaves like other systems where the beginning of the typing of the
name results in the system following the keystrokes to come to the
title, if that title is in storage. In this respect, the system
operates much like help topics in many programs. Likewise, it is
possible to cursor through the list of titles, again as in the case
of the help topics screen. If no material associated with the title
is in storage, the title will not be found. It then becomes
necessary that, in accordance with the invention, the title must be
entered into the system at step 33.
[0039] In this respect, the central processor 22 at step 34 checks
computer readable storage media 28 to see if the title has
previously been entered into the system. If the title is already in
the system, the operator will be given the opportunity to enter or
select various versions of the media and select materials, such as
a television version, director's cut, poster, European version and
the like, as appears more fully below.
[0040] If it is a new title, the system, at step 36, assigns an
identifier to the title ABC and, at step 38, stores that
information in storage media 28. The operator can then input any
additional data at step 40, such as the producer or owner of the
title. The object of this additional entry of data is to allow the
identification of products in ways other than the title.
[0041] This allows additional flexibility when it comes time to
output product from the system. For example, if one wanted to
search the work of Stanley Kubrick, or dramatizations of Mario Puzo
novels, such additional information provides for this facility. In
addition, more than one piece may have the same title. Accordingly,
such additional information allows positive identification of the
particular item to be furnished to an exhibitor or broadcaster. In
accordance with the invention it is contemplated that after a title
has been entered into the system and given an identifier, the title
may be retrieved at step 33 from storage media 28 and presented to
the operator at step 40, where additional materials can be added if
desired.
[0042] Returning to description of the inventive method for
inputting materials into the system, the operator indicates the
type of media at step 42 that is to be converted into digital
format, if necessary, and stored on storage media 28. For example,
the material may be identified as a feature film on celluloid, an
hour-long television program on video, a radio spot for a movie,
the magazine advertisement for a television show, or the like. Once
rendered and stored digitally on central server 16, audio and
visual materials are easily accessible by business-to-business
customers around the globe.
[0043] The invention may be applied, for example, to the various
types of media illustrated in FIG. 2, namely celluloid, video,
audio, text, and graphics. At step 46, visual media, such as film
or videotape is input into the system for conversion. Movie film
can come in several formats of its own, such as seventy millimeter,
thirty-five millimeter, and sixteen millimeter, each of which can
be in such formats as interpositive, duplicate negative, original
negative, low contrast print, or release print.
[0044] In the case of such film inputs into the system, it is
necessary for the film to be scanned at step 48 and turned into an
analog RGB video signal. The video signal resulting from the
scanning of the celluloid film can then be digitized using an
analog to digital converter and stored in RAM at step 50. Because
of the high bandwidth of the resulting video signals and the very
large information content associated with a video signal, it has
relatively large storage requirements. However, video signals are
also highly redundant. Accordingly, compression of video signals is
highly effective and desirable. Accordingly, after the signal has
been digitized in RAM at step 50, the signal is compressed at step
52, given an address at step 54 and stored in media 28. At step 54,
the type of the particular product, which has been stored, will be
indicated in storage, in this case, film, and details respecting
the nature of that film will also be indicated in storage. For
example, the product may be designated as seventy millimeter,
feature length, documentary footage shot for television in 1984.
Other details respecting the particular product, such as the
producer, director, actors cover and other information may also be
sent to storage for later retrieval.
[0045] In accordance with the present invention, in order to avoid
a need for excessive storage space in media 28, the video signal,
whether it was generated by scanning conventional celluloid film or
originated as a video signal on videotape, is not put into RAM for
compression in one large operation, but is, instead, digitally
compressed portion by portion to reduce bandwidth and file size,
and then stored at step 54. However, after one video portion has
been stored in media 28 at step 54, the system returns to step 46,
where additional video is input into the system and processed as
described above, and the entire process repeated until the entire
video has been transformed into RAM. It is noted that the
redundancy in a video signal resides largely in corresponding pixel
to corresponding pixel redundancy from one frame to the next.
Accordingly, it is highly desirable that portions to be compressed
be more than one frame in size, and that each frame of each such
portion is compared to the prior frame, corresponding pixel by
corresponding pixel. This will effectively remove redundancy and
maximize the reduction of file size.
[0046] In accordance with the invention, it is also contemplated
that electronic video recordings may also be input into the system,
digitized and stored in media 28. For example, possible video
formats include VHS, 1.sup.2, digital Betacam, D1, D2, BetacamSP,
and the new high-resolution formats. When a video signal is to be
digitized, scanning is not necessary and after input of the footage
at step 56, the system proceeds directly to digitize the signal and
store it in RAM at step 58. The digitized movie is then compressed
at step 60, and stored in RAM together with its associated other
information, as described above the connection with film input at
step 46, under its identifier address at step 62 in computer
readable storage 28. Here again, because of the high information
content of video, digitizing and compression is done in portions at
steps 58 and 60, the information is stored at step 62, and the
system proceeds back to step 56 to repeat the process for the next
portion of input video.
[0047] As alluded to above, the objective of the system is to store
not only feature films, but also associated promotional and other
materials. For example, marketing materials may be stored along
with a feature film. This allows such materials to be sent in
digital form directly from producer 14 to central server 16 via
either cyberspace 12 or private link 20, as shown in FIG. 1. With
the advent of motion pictures being "filmed" digitally, this
transfer will be relatively easy. However, since almost all
existing feature films are on celluloid, they must be converted by
scanning and digitizing, and then compressed and stored, or
converted and compressed through the use of equivalent
techniques.
[0048] Referring back to the objective of storing associated
materials, if, for example, a radio spot is to be input into the
system, the system proceeds to step 64, where audio material can be
entered. This is done by the system activating a soundcard or
similar device in the computer associated with the storage of
information on disk storage 28. In accordance with the invention,
analog audio may simply be coupled to the soundcard. The same can
be generated using any playback device, or, alternatively, or may
arrive from a remote location by wire, for example, over the
telephone system. Audio may input into the system by a producer 14
in any format such as DA-88, DAT, thirty-five millimeter magnetic
tape, sixteen millimeter magnetic tape, 1/4.sup.2 audio tape,
thirty-five millimeter optical tack, computer session, compact
disc, audio from video formats noted above, or any other source,
including live performance. If audio is input at step 64 in an
analog format, it is converted to digital at analog/digital
conversion step 58. Digital audio may then optionally be compressed
in memory at step 68. The audio spot is then stored at step seventy
under a selected identifier which associates it was the particular
feature film or other product for later retrieval from readable
storage 28 via the Internet, private link, or the like.
[0049] It is also contemplated that the inventive system will be
used to make graphics, such as movie posters, handbills, newspaper
advertisements, and the like inexpensively and quickly available at
remote locations. In the event that the operator wishes to input
such materials into the system, the system proceeds to step 72 in
response to the selection of the media type at step 42. The
operator activates the input graphics at step 72, after the system
activates a scanner at step 74.
[0050] In accordance with the invention, it is contemplated that
the input of graphics at step 72 and scanning at step 74 will
consist generally letter size or smaller graphics and text (typical
of magazines and smaller newspaper advertising, handbills and the
like). Over the system also contemplates application to oversize
graphics with and without text (such as posters of the type
commonly seen at movie theaters). After the performance of scanning
at step 74, the output of the scanner is digitized at step 76. The
file containing the graphics entered into the system is then
compressed at step 78, although this is optional. The final version
of the material is then stored in memory at step 80. Such storage
at step 80 in disk storage 28 is done under the selected identifier
that associates it with the particular feature film or to like.
Such storage also includes the description of the media type
(graphics) so that the same is available from storage media 28.
[0051] There has been described above a process for moving graphics
of a conventional nature into the system. This is particularly
important in the case of the overwhelming majority of existing
feature films and other productions. However, this will become
increasingly unimportant in the future as virtually all production
of such materials migrates into the digital world.
[0052] Accordingly, as multimedia producer 14 in digital form may
produce some or all of the media materials in this category, this
material may also be transferred electronically over cyberspace 12
or private network 20 to central server 16. Downloads to central
server 16 may be done directly into storage media 28 under a
selected identifier. Alternatively, more control may be exercised
by the operator of the web site at central server 16 by having the
download stored temporarily in a "mail box" file assigned to the
producer for such purposes, or the like, until an operator located
at the central server reviews material and transfers it to its
proper place in storage media 28 under its associated feature film
or the like identifier and type.
[0053] In similar fashion, and it is possible, in accordance with
the present invention, to input alphanumeric materials into the
system for retrieval over the Internet. Such alphanumeric materials
may include scripts, foreign subtitles, and closed caption data for
the hearing-impaired. Where such alphanumeric data has been
selected for input at step 42, the system proceeds to look up the
film's identification address, which is then associated with the
material at step 44. The system then receives such alphanumeric
data at step 82, and stores that material at step 84.
[0054] Inasmuch as such alphanumeric material is generally
available in digital form, it is contemplated that the same will be
downloaded to disk storage 28 through the use of the Internet or
conventional magnetic disk storage, such as floppy disks, or the
like. However, in the event that such information is only available
in hardcopy, the same may be scanned using optical character
recognition software, with an OCR reader and the optical character
recognition software being activated at step 42 upon the
identification of the type of material.
[0055] In accordance with the invention, it is also contemplated
that other materials not specifically identified above, may also be
input into the system for later retrieval from disk storage 28 via
the Internet or other means. It is also noted that, in accordance
with the invention, it is preferred that material be input into the
system through the use of existing digital materials, through the
use of remote transport over the Internet or other communications
network.
[0056] In accordance with the method of the present invention, the
presentation of the program illustrated by the flowchart of FIG. 2
is done on the monitor of a computer in conjunction with the number
of screens which form the graphical user interface between the
inventive system and the person implementing the storage of film
and materials in disk storage 28. More particularly, FIG. 3 is an
example of a display screen for implementation of steps 30 and 32
in FIG. 2.
[0057] Graphical User Interface
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 3, a screen 100 is shown that is a
simplified web site home page to be viewed by a producer or an
exhibitor looking to transact business or communicate with the
operator of the inventive web site. A log-on block 102 for
implementation of step 30 is provided. A person working on behalf
of any owner of rights which participates in the system (such as a
producer 14 as illustrated FIG. 1) or any one of the exhibitors
18a-e can enter his organization's name and password in order to
gain access to the rest of the web site. If a valid password is
entered the user can then make a selection or enter a desired
title. Once logged on, a user can enter a title or click on search
button 104 to locate a particular type of movie.
[0059] Searching is done by way of a secondary group of screens
allowing searching according to any of various search criteria,
such as producer, director, lead actor, supporting actors, subject
matter, etc. Once the searching has been completed, the title of
the product, which the user is interested in obtaining, appears
after "Movie Title:" in screen 100.
[0060] Screen 100 has two sets of functions associated with it. The
first set of functions is implemented when the system recognizes
that it is dealing with a producer or other order of rights. On the
other hand, a second set of functions is active and implemented
when the system recognizes that it is dealing with an
exhibitor.
[0061] In the case where the system recognizes the person logging
onto the web site as an owner of rights, it implements the first
set of functions. Accordingly, if the user is a producer or other
owner of rights and wishes to view the conditions for use of the
web site to distribute his product for various types of products,
he clicks on an enter sales data button 106. Upon the clicking of
button 106, if the user is unknown to the system, the user is
instructed in subsequent screens to enter such data as the type of
product which he licenses, the performers associated with the
product, the content (i.e. dramatic, musical, news, etc.), and
historical income data. If the user is already known to the system,
much information is already known to the system, such as the
location of the exhibitor, the nature of his business, his existing
contractual relationships with exhibitors and with the operator of
the web site, and the like. This allows the system to give the
exhibitor cost factors in accordance with his contracts and other
information. Naturally, these figures are a function of agreements
between the web site operator and the owner of rights.
[0062] In addition to using the home page 100 as an entry point to
subsequent screens for providing information, and providing for the
input of product into the system, the home page also provides a
portal for a client, such as an exhibitor or an owner of rights, to
view his account status, as will be described more fully below.
[0063] In addition, an exhibitor, for example, may click on an
email button 110 to be added to an email list to receive
announcements for such things as newly added titles on a regular
basis. In the case of owners of rights, other subject matter will
be implemented in regular e-mail communication. In addition, a
"send e-mail" button 112 may be provided on home page 100 to allow
messages to be sent to the web site operator.
[0064] A button 114 for requesting additional information about the
web site may also be placed on the home page illustrated in FIG. 3.
This information may be on the home page to give unregistered
visitors an idea of what the web site is all about. Clicking on
button 114 will bring the users to a secondary page or pages giving
information on the web site (not illustrated).
[0065] It is also contemplated that various advertisements 116 may
also appear on the home page. In accordance of the invention it is
contemplated that such advertisements will be specific to
particular users, their geography and the like and will be based on
information held in the system with respect to prior exhibition of
various titles, their popularity and the like. The objective of the
system is to use data inside the database of the web site to
predict successful products and to make such products available to
users by way of advertisements, and to further include in said
advertisements information with respect to the fact that such
product is expected to be successful and why such success is to be
expected. Such information may include information on previous box
office, Nielsen ratings, or the like in other cities.
[0066] Such information may also include the fact that the product
is generally popular, but has not been seen in the area for years.
This is of particular interest to television operators who are
sometimes not well staffed and thus not able to do the research,
which would make their stations successful. As is alluded to above,
it is the objective of this invention to store in its database all
information respecting licensing of films and other products, their
location, the time at which licensing of the same occurred, box
office, and so forth for later use in targeted advertising and in
checking the accuracy of reported box office (in order to prevent
fraud), and for other uses known to those in the industry.
[0067] Returning to the description of the function of screen 100
as a portal for exhibitors or the official web site operator to
enter products into storage media 28, once the title is entered
data entry logon block 102 and button 118 is click on, the system
proceeds to screen 120 in FIG. 4. Screen 120 provides for the input
of three types of material, namely, text and graphics, they feature
film, and audio. The user would then click the button associated
with the particular type of material in the general categories
noted above, which he wishes to input. Each selection may have
sub-screens for making additional distinctions between the formats
set forth above.
[0068] Alternatively, screen 120 could be replaced by a screen,
which lists such things as feature films, television specials, news
programs, and so forth. Selection of one of these types of material
to be downloaded to the web site results in the generation of
inappropriate sub screen. For example, if feature film is selected,
the sub screen would list feature film, radio promotion spot,
magazine advertisements, posters and the like. Some screens coming
off of each of these selections would differentiate between the
various types of formats. For example, feature film would bring up
a screen showing celluloid format, video format, and digital
format.
[0069] Either of these two alternatives provides for the generation
of descriptive and indexing information in the process of
downloading product into the web site.
[0070] In the event that the decision has been made to make certain
functions of central server 16 directly available to producers 14
over a computer network 10, screen 44 becomes a generally available
web page and functions for numerous producers 16 as it does for an
operator at central server 16 to enter new multimedia material,
such as a new version for a movie, or simply to update a critics
comments on a poster or press release. Even different departments
with an individual producer 16 may have access to such a web site
of central server 16.
[0071] Remote Access to Product and Transfer of Same over the
Internet
[0072] If the user is an exhibitor and wishes to view the
conditions for sale of the particular product selected, the
exhibitor clicks on an enter sales data button 106 in FIG. 3. Upon
the clicking of button 106, the user is instructed in subsequent
screens to enter such data as his expected box office figures.
Other information is already known to the system, such as the
location of the exhibitor, the nature of his business, his existing
contractual relationships with producers or owners and with the
operator of the web site, and the like. This allows the system to
give the exhibitor cost factors in accordance with his contracts
and other information. Naturally, these figures are a function of
agreements between the web site operator and the owner of rights in
the particular title sought by the user.
[0073] In addition to using the home page 100 as an entry point to
subsequent screens for searching and purchasing rights in product
and arranging for the transport of the same via the Internet or
otherwise, including conventional means, the home page also
provides a portal for an exhibitor as well as an owner of rights,
to view his account status.
[0074] If the exhibitor wishes to obtain media, the exhibitor
clicks on button 118, and this brings up screen 120 illustrated in
FIG. 4. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the select media type screen 120
presents the operator with several choices with respect to media
type and format. The exhibitor is thus invited to click on various
buttons to obtain various products. It is noted that this screen is
greatly simplified or purposes of illustration and may include any
products that the operator of the web site wishes to make
available, such as posters, radio advertisements, and so forth, and
that screen 120 may have specific entries of it which show the
availability of such products, their length, their size, and so
forth.
[0075] Once a title and its associated marketing material has been
stored on computer readable storage media 28 of central server 16
as described above, it can be accessed by an exhibitor 18a-18d from
anywhere in the world through a connection to cyberspace 12, in
this example, the Internet. The steps of inventive method 122 for
implementing the transport of product already in storage at the
central server are illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0076] In particular, an exhibitor 18, after reaching the central
server's web site, can log on at step 30 by entering a name known
to the system and confirming the same with a password. This is done
on the site's home page as illustrated FIG. 3. Alternatively, the
exhibitor may click on a become a member button 124 and be sent to
a data entry step 98. Such a data entry step is associated with a
screen with basic information about interests and the nature of the
user. Later, the system sends the visitor to a financial data entry
screen 126, as illustrated FIG. 6, and as will be more fully
described below. In accordance with the invention, it is
anticipated that the ability of small facilities, such as high
schools, colleges and the like to obtain first quality product will
be enhanced. This is because of the cost savings associated with
the automated transfer of product over the
[0077] Internet. Accordingly, such users will be paying relatively
small amounts of money and a credit card financing arrangement may
become the rule rather than the exception. Such an arrangement is
easily implemented using screen 126.
[0078] However, in the case of "trade" users, more sophisticated
arrangements may become necessary with correspondingly different
input screens. Such arrangements may involve automatic debiting of
bank accounts, 30 days credit, or other arrangements typically used
in the entertainment industry. It is also contemplated that charges
may be key to Nielsen ratings in the case of television exhibitors,
and that the output of the Nielsen ratings system may be input into
the system for automatic charging of the accounts of television
exhibitors after a particular product has been transported to the
exhibitor and exhibited on television, provided that the Nielsen
system has monitored the subject exhibition.
[0079] Referring back to FIG. 5, central server 16 examines the log
on entry at step 31 to determine whether the individual is an
exhibitor who is going to transport material to the database, or an
exhibitor who Will have product downloaded to his site for
exhibition, posting, advertising for the like. If the system
determines that the individual is an owner or other person wishing
to download information into the web site at step 31, it will
proceed along path 128 and through the method steps illustrated in
FIG. 2.
[0080] If, on the other hand, the system detects at step 31 that
the person who has logged on is an exhibitor 18, it implements the
method steps illustrated FIG. 5. In particular, it moves along path
29 to step 130, where it determines whether the user is already
signed as a subscriber to the product transport service provided by
the operator of the inventive web site. In the event that the
individual is not a subscriber, certain limited functions will be
allowed to function. The purpose of this is to interest the
individual visiting the web site into becoming a member of the
service.
[0081] Referring back to FIG. 5, if the user does not have a valid
password, or is a new user, the user can enter and sign-up by
giving certain data at step 132. After the data entry screen has
been populated with all necessary data by the person visiting the
web site, the system proceeds to step 134 where a financial data
information screen 126, as illustrated FIG. 6, is presented to
enable the visitor to enter either credit card and/or financial
institution information.
[0082] It is contemplated that many different types of transactions
will be available. For example, a user does not purchase a major
motion picture with a credit card, since payment is usually based
on revenues, such as a royalty payment, often keyed to box office
receipts. However, a credit card makes sense for the purchase of a
poster, radio spot, or the like. Older films and "B" movies may be
available to some users, such as schools, libraries, and other
non-profit organizations, and these may be purchased by use of a
credit card. Indeed, even feature films being distributed to a
relatively small venue for a single showing, such as a high school,
they use the services of a credit card company. It is also noted
that if the credit card is being used in connection with an
exhibition at a small venue and the product is being offered on the
basis of the box office as opposed to a fixed fee, an estimate of
the charge associated with the transaction may be made in charge to
the credit card account, with any excess being credited or
shortfall charged after exhibition.
[0083] Alternatively, users may make deposits and obtain credits,
which may be charged against, in the case of greater charges. It is
also contemplated in accordance with the present invention that
direct charges against the bank account of an exhibitor may be
made, and that the same may be implemented electronically at the
time that the order for, for example, a feature films is placed.
Once the order has been placed and the account debited instantly
and electronically, product may be delivered to the exhibitor. In
the case of exhibition by license keyed to the box office,
historical data in the system may be used to estimate the box
office and the royalty.
[0084] After user 18 completes the entry of financial data at step
134, the system proceeds to a credit approval step 136. In the case
of a credit card, this is simply the verification that the account
has the amount of money needed to consummate the transaction. In
the case of more substantial accounts, such as a theater in a major
city, the system may log itself off after receiving data necessary
for credit check, and the credit check implemented in a
conventional way.
[0085] After the credit check has resulted in a determination, the
system sends the user an e-mail telling him to contact the web
site. The user then logs onto the web site and continues the
process. If the credit of the user has been disapproved, he is told
us at step 136 and the system proceeds to log off at step 138.
[0086] After the credit of the user, now a prospective exhibitor
has been approved at step 136, the system proceeds to the select
action step 140. Likewise, in the system had determined at step 130
that the individual was already an exhibitor known to the system
after checking the name and password, the system also proceeds to
the select action step 140.
[0087] At the select action step, a select action menu is presented
to the exhibitor in the form of a select action screen 142 which
gives the exhibitor the opportunity to take various actions with
respect to the title previously selected, as illustrated FIG. 7. An
example of such a secondary web page 142 shows the various choices
that a verified user may make. By way of example, and not by way of
limitation, a user may click on a change language button 144 to
view the web site in a different language. A user may click on a
preview movie button 146 to preview a selected movie title or click
on a preview other programming button 148 to view television
programming or the like. A user may click on a download movie or
program button 150 to download a selected title or program. A
download advertising button 152 may be provided that either
downloads an advertising package containing preselected material or
allows the user to select from a list of available material. Since
there may be advertising supplements available a download
advertising supplements button 154 may be present. Other marketing
materials that may be made available for the title selected in the
previous screen, and having their own buttons in screen 142, may
include previews and trailers button 156, audio segments button
158, ownership verification button 160, contract information button
162, a terms button 164, and a sales history and related
information button 166, all for the previously selected feature
film, program or other product.
[0088] After the selection is made at step 140, that selection is
recorded at step 168 along with an identification designation
associated with the exhibitor who has made that selection. This
enables a record to be kept of each user's requests, along with
selected data such as date and time of request. It also enables the
collection of some of the statistical data to be used by the
system.
[0089] If at the select action step a selection was made which
indicates that the user is interested in exhibiting a particular
product, such as buttons 146, 150, 152, or 166, the system proceeds
to step 170. A title availability function is performed at step 170
to determine whether the particular title is available. If the
title is not available, the screen receives and presents an
indication that the title is not available and provides a button
for the user to make another selection. If the title is not
available, the exhibitor is returned to select action step 140 to
select another action, or change the title, either manually or
through activation of the search button in screen 142 illustrated
in FIG. 7.
[0090] Once a title that is in the system has been selected its
identifier is noted in memory and the exhibitor is able then to
make appropriate selections. Several functions may be available on
a single screen as described above. A user may call up a review
movie function at step 172. At step 172 the exhibitor is given the
opportunity to either review an entire movie or portions thereof.
After that, the exhibitor has the opportunity to decide whether to
select another title and be sent to select action step 140 or
decide to proceed with purchasing or leasing the movie.
[0091] Where the exhibitor has decided to purchase the product
after being presented with an alphanumeric invitation to do so,
screen at the web site, the exhibitor is then presented with a
contract for the particular material for the selected title and
accepts or refuses the contract at contract acceptance function
174. User 18 then selects type of material that is desired at the
select format step 176. For example, if a poster is desired, the
resolution must be selected to fit the size that the poster will
be, for example, handbill-size, or marquee-size. This selection is
also recorded at step 168 for later analysis. The selected material
is then downloaded at step 180 and the download is stored on the
user's local storage media at step 182. Step 180 is implemented in
a separate screen illustrated in FIG. 8, which will be described in
detail below. The exhibitor's account or credit card is charged at
184. The user is then permitted to either select another title or
leave the web site at step 128.
[0092] As alluded to above, FIG. 8 illustrates a web site page for
enabling an exhibitor to select delivery options including download
(via Internet) indicated by a selector box 186, overnight delivery
indicated by a selector box 188, regular surface indicated by a
selector box 190, fax indicated by a selector box 192 (if
appropriate media requested), and a telephone confirmation of
request option indicated by a selector box 194. The exhibitor
clicks on any one of the above selector boxes 186 through 192, and,
if desired, telephone confirmation selector box 194 executing their
marked request(s) by clicking on send request button 180. After the
appropriate boxes have been selected by the exhibitor, the
exhibitor then clicks on button 196 to send this information to the
system. Referring now to FIG. 9, the relationship between central
server 16 and exhibitor 18 is shown in greater detail in block
diagram form along with certain functions occurring at each
location. As previously discussed, media having different formats
is loaded or stored onto computer readable data storage media 28
using peripherals connected to central server 16. Examples of
peripheral equipment include film scanner 198, which scans visual
material in the form of celluloid film to be digitized and turns it
into a digital signal, which is compressed, and stored on data
storage media 28. Sound board 200 is utilized in conjunction with
devices capable of playing audio material in various formats as
discussed above to digitize the material for later compression and
storage on data storage media 28. Scanner 202 is a letter size
scanner for digitizing text, small graphical material and the like
of marketing materials, such as newspaper and radio advertisements
to be used by a local theater or television station owner. A large
format scanner 204 is used to digitize media such as the posters
that are common in theaters for hyping patrons with respect to
coming attractions.
[0093] The computer readable data storage media 28 is made
available to exhibitors 18 using their own central processor units
206 and its associated memory, communicating with the central
server 16 over a communication network such as the Internet. In the
case of using the Internet for a connection, user's computer 206
acts through the web site computer, which serves as the central
server 16, to access data storage media 28. Once digitized media
materials may be downloaded to user's computer 206 using an
appropriate data storage media depending upon the size of the media
to be downloaded. In particular, any selected material can be
printed out on a poster size printer doorway, printed on a letter
size printer 210, recorded on an audio connection or system 212, or
a digital projector 214 in the case of a theater. However, in the
case of a television transmitter associated with a television
station, the material may be downloaded to videotape or any other
format for playback by the television station.
[0094] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the system
especially adapted to sales of audiovisual productions to
television stations and theaters is illustrated in FIG. 10. In
accordance with the embodiment of the system illustrated in FIG.
10, data is collected for the purpose of billing and also for the
purpose of generating a database of information useful as a sales
tool and as a device for assuring a high likelihood of exhibitor
satisfaction with the delivered product.
[0095] In the system illustrated in FIG. 10, operation of system
422 is similar to the operation of the system illustrated in FIG.
5, and parts performing the same function have been given the same
reference numerals. The description that follows is limited to
those aspects of the system, which are different from the
embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0096] In particular, in system 422 after a movie has been viewed
at step 172 contract terms for commercial licensing of a production
are presented at step 424. This is followed at step 426 with the
presentation of statistics respecting the particular system at step
428. Such statistics may include past box office in cities of
various sizes, with various language use characteristics, and so
forth, such data being collected by the system during the course of
a customer's signing up for the inventive service, and the
customers using the inventive service.
[0097] After acceptance and format selection at steps 174 and 176,
the system proceeds to log a follow-up at step 430 by sending
information respecting the format selected to the database 4 32.
This information is sent at step 434. At step 174, the system also
proceeds to send information respecting the contract acceptance to
database 432 at step 436. This includes the storage of statistics
on such things as format, customer, customer location, other
products combined with the subject product in the same order,
title, nature of exhibitor, and so forth. This information is sent
to a statistics database 438 at step 436. The system then proceeds
to download the selected material at step 180, as illustrated in
FIG. 5, and the material stored and the account of the client
charged, or the transaction financially implemented by other
means.
[0098] Follow-up database 432 is periodically queried for ripe
follow-up data. Ripeness may be determined by any suitable means,
including fixed periods, inquiries from the customer, detection of
a problem, or the like. In response to a determination that a
particular sale, previously made as described above, is right for
inquiry, this information comes from database 432 and, in the case
of a theater triggers the sending of an e-mail at step 440 or other
communication to the theater requiring respecting the box office
receipts. When this information is received, the system proceeds at
step 442 to record the box office receipts and so this information
to statistics database 438. In addition, the system also triggers
the charging of the customers account in a second implementation of
step 184.
[0099] In similar fashion, in the case of a customer that is a
television station, the most applicable ratings at the time of the
airing of the product are checked by the system at step 442. The
statistics are then stored at step 436 and sent to statistics
database 438. Such information can be made available on demand (for
example by clicking on an appropriately labeled screen button) to
any person using the automated ordering system as outlined above of
the present invention, or it may be "pushed" without a customer
demand (for example as a marketing tool to advertise or promote a
particularly attractive product, or get a sale on a product about
which the customer has already inquired about) at any point or
points in the ordering cycle for multimedia product.
[0100] While the foregoing description and drawings represents the
preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be
understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions
may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention as defined in the accompanying claims. In
particular, it will be clear that the present invention may be
embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements,
proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components,
without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics
thereof.
[0101] The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be
considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The
metes and bounds of the invention are defined by the appended
claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.
* * * * *